The history of K. Knudtson Branch 173 begins with a small group of WWI Veterans meeting in the old Osoyoos School House. They accepted the challenge to form a Branch of the British Empire Service League, receiving their Charter on December 15th, 1944.

The original group of Veterans was joined by a number of WWII Veterans in planning a Legion building. A well-known local rancher, K. Knudtson, soon got involved and because of his deep interest in the Legion, contributed the property. Volunteers utilizing hand labour then built the existing building. Because of Knudtson’s concern and dedication to the Legion, Branch 173 made him an Honorary Member, and named the Branch after him. The mortgage was burned in 1958.